By David Okia
Katakwi, Uganda – National Resistance Movement (NRM) Eastern Uganda Vice Chairperson aspirant David Calvin Echodu has secured strong endorsements from delegates in Katakwi, Amuria, and Kapelebyong districts, despite facing persistent land grabbing allegations, which he has firmly denied.
Addressing the delegates, Echodu dismissed the accusations as “baseless fabrications” intended to tarnish his reputation and derail his campaign.
“Whoever claims I have grabbed their land should go to court. I have no interest in taking anyone’s land,” he asserted. “The land in Inego and other areas is hired on lease. I am not above the law, and if I am proven guilty, I should be charged. But I will not allow my name to be dragged through the mud. I am soon taking legal action against those spreading these falsehoods.”
Echodu also clarified allegations surrounding land used for golf activities in Soroti, stating that he had acquired a legal lease for the property in question.
Leaders Rally Behind Echodu
Soroti City East Division Mayor Paul Omer urged Echodu to take his message directly to the public through radio programs and community meetings. Similarly, Simon Peter Okello, NRM Vice Chairperson for Amuria District, encouraged delegates to stand firm in their support for his candidacy.
Ambassador Nelson Oceger made an impassioned appeal for unity within the party, particularly urging members who lost in recent primaries to remain committed to the NRM cause.
“Since 2006, 2011, 2016, and 2021, Mr. Echodu consistently supported the NRM and its activities. He has played a critical role in relief food distribution, malaria treatment campaigns, and other social interventions. This track record is why even President Museveni sought to work closely with him,” Oceger noted.
Oceger emphasized that giving Echodu the regional vice chairmanship would enhance the party’s grassroots structures and strengthen mobilization efforts across Eastern Uganda.
Commitment to Grassroots Mobilization
Reaffirming his dedication to party building, Echodu said:
“Effective mobilization starts at the grassroots. We must strengthen our structures if we are to secure the NRM’s future in Eastern Uganda.”
With political attention now shifting toward the Teso sub-region, supporters believe Echodu’s leadership could play a decisive role in shaping the NRM’s political fortunes both regionally and nationally.
